5 everyday sources of stress
Learn about lifestyle habits that can lead to anxiety overload.
Jan, 2026
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Stress is a normal part of life, and a certain amount can motivate you to accomplish things. It can keep you energized, sharp, and at your healthiest, most efficient self. But too much stress can sap your mental resources and even make you sick.
Fortunately, we do have some control over stress—and we can change certain habits so we can feel more in control. With that in mind, here are some unexpected sources of stress, plus tips to help manage them.
Written byJordan Lawson.
Medically reviewed byAnn Wendling, MD, MPH.
Sources: American Addiction Centers. The Mental Health Benefits of Cleaning + 7
- American Addiction Centers. The Mental Health Benefits of Cleaning, Organizing & Decluttering Your Space. June 1, 2023.
- Intermountain Health. Can organizing impact your mental health? November 17, 2023.
- National Alliance on Mental Health. Boundaries: What are they and how to develop your own. 2024.
- National Alliance on Mental Health: Wake County. Creating and Maintaining Healthy Boundaries. Accessed November 25, 2024.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Why stress causes people to overeat. February 15, 2021.
- National Sleep Foundation. 10 Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep. Accessed November 25, 2024.
- National Alliance on Mental Health. The Power of a Morning Routine. August 9, 2017.
- Mayo Clinic. Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress. August 3, 2022.
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